The status of birds associated with Serendip Sanctuary in Victoria

[Dr Richard Nowotny <>]

What is the "official" status (for example, are they
"countable") of free-flying Cape Barren Geese which are
regularly to be found in the fields around Serendip Sanctuary* (where
presumably they were captive-bred until Serendip ceased its
captive-breeding programs some years ago)?  And as an extension of
this question, what then is the status of CBG at the Western Treatment
Plant (presumably also birds from the Serendip population) - or anywhere
else around Melbourne for that matter?  I assume (but don't know)
that the significant CBG population at Phillip Island is a
"natural" population, with no relationship with the ex-Serendip
birds?
Similarly, what is the status of the Emus to be found within the Serendip
boundary fences (usually on the western side of the sanctuary property,
with the large population of kangaroos)?
And while on this subject, what is the status of any Magpie Geese seen
around Melbourne (I remember one was present at Edithvale Wetlands a year
or so ago) - I'm assuming these are also the result of former
captive-breeding at Serendip?
On the other hand I understand that the Brolgas which have been seen
recently on the Bellarine Peninsula and previously at Werribee have
nothing to do with the small captive population at Serendip and are wild
migrants returning to historical breeding sites.  Correct?
All contributions welcomed.
Richard Nowotny

*  Serendip Sanctuary, now a sort of small "bird-zoo"
frequented by school groups and other visitors, is located between
Melbourne and Geelong (closer to Geelong).

                
RICHARD NOWOTNY
8 Pier St   Port Melbourne
VIC  AUSTRALIA  3207
(H)  61-3-9645.6870
(M)  0438 224456